Ticket sales soar for 2026 Grampians Grape Escape as region emerges from era of repair

Ticket sales for this year’s Grampians Grape Escape are already tracking ahead of previous years, as the region continues its recovery following the 2024 bushfires. A community celebration with an impressive amount of wine only seems fit. 

• More than 100 exhibitors have signed up for the iconic food and wine festival, which will take place from May 1-3.

• The Grape Escape has been running in Halls Gap since 1992, and it brings together the best of the best in local wine, brewing, and artisan distilling. 

🍷 The deal with local wine: West Vic has a storied history when it comes to wine. 

It’s the birthplace of sparkling shiraz, and the cool-climate vines that dot the region produce a variety of national favourites. 

Co-Festival Director Kate Kirkpatrick told the Brolga the Grampians Grape Escape is a great opportunity to bring the regional wine community together.

🗣️: “We have so many smaller operators and traditional family businesses that only want to see the region grow and want the very best for it.” Kirkpatrick said.

• “The festival plays such a pivotal role, in economic value and tourism. It’s a hallmark event. The economic value the event inputs is very large, helping all small businesses in the area.” 

🤸 Bouncing back: Kirkpatrick said the festival is here to help wineries impacted by previous bushfires. 

• “The festival is a really strong supporter of industry that may have lost vintages and vines,” said Kirkpatrick.

🗣️: “We work to get the job done. There’s a real will to see everyone do really well. The connections here are genuine, and we work together to promote the region for the greater good.” 

A highlight of the region for Kirkpatrick is the array of wineries on her doorstep. 

• “I love rosé. I’m partial to pink, and I’m lucky enough to live in Pomonal, not far from Pomonal Estate and Black and Ginger.”

⌚ What next: Grampians Grape Escape is set to feature artisan winemakers, distillers, and producers set against a backdrop of live music and immersive experiences. Be sure to check out the Coal Pit, a masterclass in low-and-slow cooking that involves direct roasting on open ashes. 

Head here to learn more about the 2026 edition of the festival.